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It is a large, friendly and active species and has thrived in captivity.
Its natural habitat is varied and can range from desert to grasslands and dry savannas.
It is becoming more rare in its natural habitat but specimens can still be found in areas of Ethiopia and the Sudan and often along the southern edge of the Sahara Desert.
It is the third largest tortoise species with males often reaching more than 30 inches.
The shell or carapace is a tan colour and has a low curved shape rather than a dome shape.
It has gained its name from the spurs or tubercles on its back legs.
Due to its larger size this species requires a large enclosure in which to live happily and healthily.
They are hardy tortoises but do need to have a secure environment as they will dig large holes if left to their own devices! If you provide enough hiding places within the enclosure your pet will be less likely to try to escape to the world beyond.
If you decide to care for this species it will require a strong enclosure as they are very strong and curious.
If you have an open mesh cage your tortoise will repeatedly try to get through it so you must ensure it is very secure.
This includes the strength and height of the walls as well as ensuring if the tortoise digs it cannot dig an escape tunnel under the fence! This tortoise will require a normal herbivorous diet and you may also decide to provide a substitute vitamin and mineral supplement..
It may also be advantageous to provide a bale of alfalfa hay and perhaps a cuttlefish to provide some calcium.
If you decide to breed from your pet you must only keep one male with one or more females because two or more males together in an enclosure will fight each other and may cause injury.
this species has been known to breed very well and you could have fifteen to twenty eggs laid in each clutch and as many six clutches laid per year! The African tortoise is a very good species to choose to keep and care for if you have the correct type of enclosure and are aware of the amount of time and expense it may require to live a long and happy life.
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